Estonia‘s EuroBasket 2025 Run Ends in Narrow Defeat to Portugal
Tbilisi, Georgia - Estonia’s promising EuroBasket 2025 journey concluded today with a heartbreaking 68-65 loss to Portugal in a decisive match. The defeat eliminates Estonia from contention for a spot in the eighth final.
Both teams entered the game having previously defeated the Czech Republic. Portugal,finishing fourth in Group A,will now advance to the eighth final where they will face the winner of the Group B matchup between Germany and Finland. estonia’s campaign ends despite a strong performance, showcasing their growth on the international stage.
Estonia initially surged ahead in the third quarter, building a double-digit lead at 37-27. However, Portugal responded with an 11-0 run to tie the score. The game remained tightly contested,with Estonia briefly equalizing at 53-53 following a three-pointer from Janari Joesaar. Portugal than seized control with a 7-0 run, establishing a 60-53 advantage.
Arthur konontsuk attempted to rally Estonia with three consecutive three-pointers, bringing the score to 64-64 with 55 seconds remaining. Despite Konontsuk converting one of two free throws after a foul, Portugal regained the lead at 66-65. A crucial turnover by Estonian defender Kristian Kullamae with 22 seconds left sealed their fate, with Diogo Ventura securing the win for Portugal through free throws.
Neemias Queeta, Portugal’s leading scorer, was sidelined mid-way through the third quarter after receiving two technical fouls, but still managed to contribute 15 points.
Estonia: A. Konontsukas 20, K.kullamae 17, J. Joesaar 11, K. Treier 10.
Portugal: R. Little 17, N. Queeta 15, T. Williams 11,M. Questions 10.
